Planning a Wedding in Hawai'i: Step 2

Aloha and welcome back to my blog!  In a previous post, I wrote about the first step in planning a wedding in Hawai'i, which was to determine approximate budget, guest count, wedding date, and wedding planner.  Ready for the next step?

Ocean Crystal Chapel at the Hilton Hawaiian Village.  Photo by Mike Pham Photography.

Once you have taken care of step one, the next step is to choose your wedding venue.  Some questions to consider when contemplating wedding venues:

• Is it important to get married in a place of worship, such as a church or temple, or are you preferring to be in an outdoor location or other, non-religious, indoor spot?

• Would you like your ceremony and reception to take place in the same location, such as at a hotel, resort, or private estate?

• Would you like your reception to be indoors or outdoors?

 

Erin and Matt's Evening Cocktail Reception at the Honolulu Design Center.  Photo by Derek Wong Photography.

Ceremony and reception in the same location - Having a ceremony and reception in the same spot comes with many advantages.  For guests, there is no need to navigate getting from the ceremony and reception.  From a cost perspective, you maximize your spend on photography and videography, as these vendors usually have packages which include a number of consecutive hours, so staying in one location means that time is not wasted getting from the ceremony to the reception.

Photo by L'amour Photography.

Outdoor receptions - Often times, outdoor reception venues offer a great deal of flexibility, since you are not limited to the confines of four walls.  You can get creative with the floor plan and really personalize the space.  That said, bear in mind that most outdoor venues insist that the reception end around 10:00pm due to noise ordinances.  (If celebrating past 10:00pm is a priority, you can "have your cake and eat it, too" by planning an after party.)  Something else to note:  if the space is a blank slate, where everything must be brought in, such as tables, chairs, catering, etc., it often times becomes more costly to host a wedding at these locations than at a hotel.

Places of worship - Many times, churches will have fixed times at which wedding ceremonies can take place, and often times, these are mid-day, leaving a gap of time between the ceremony and reception.  If planning a destination wedding in Hawai'i, consider what your guests will do during that "break."  If the space of time is rather short, and if providing transportation for guests, you can have your transportation company take your guests on a brief, scenic tour between the ceremony and reception to fill the time.  If the gap of time is lengthy, then consider whether to offer transportation to the ceremony, then back to their accommodations, and then from their accommodations to the reception.

Sacred Heart Church.  Photo by Kris Labang Photography.

There is much to think about when choosing your wedding venue, and working with a wedding planner can certainly lend more insight tailored to your unique needs.  Hopefully, exploring the options is part of the fun and anticipation in imagining what is to come!

View of Waikiki's "Gold Coast."  Photo by Dave Miyamoto & Co. Photography.

Happy planning!

Mona

neu events

(formerly known as "Weddings by Grace and Mona")

Sand Ceremony

photo by Jim Creed Photography

While certainly no longer a novelty, the sand ceremony is relatively new to wedding "traditions," and may very well deserve to become a long standing one.  In many senses, the sand ceremony resembles the unity candle custom, where the simultaneous lighting of a central candle by the couple each using a separate candle, symbolizes the joining of two separate individuals and their families.  With the sand ceremony, the beauty of the mixing of two separate vessels of sand is that once the sand has been mixed, it is inextricably mixed forever and can never be separated, just as the couple's two lives and families will be.

photo by Kris Labang Photography

photo by Kris Labang Photography

The sand ceremony works exceptionally well in lieu of the unity candles when it comes to outdoor wedding ceremonies.  Particularly here in Hawaii, where our balmy weather entices many couples to celebrate their union in the open-air, the unity candle can be tricky to execute, where even a subtle gust of wind could blow out the candle (and what would the symbolism be behind that?!).  For couples wishing to incorporate the unity candle into their outdoor wedding ceremonies, I usually suggest the sand ceremony instead, which is impervious to the elements.

Photo by Chrissy Lambert Photography

The mixed sand also makes a beautiful keepsake following the ceremony.  Some couples will even get the vessel engraved with their names and wedding date.  A slew of beautiful sand ceremony kits are available on-line and even picture frames that can be filled with sand serve as a beautiful alternative to a glass container.

 

photo by L'amour Photo

photo by L'amour Photo

photo by L'amour Photo

If planning your own wedding, consider how you'd like to personalize your ceremony.  The sand ceremony might be a wonderful way to do so, but be sure to consult with your officiant first.  Happy planning!

Mona

Weddings by Grace and Mona

neu events

Tips and Advice: selecting the right people to be on your bridal party

Photo by Eugene Kam Photography

I cannot underscore enough the importance of picking the right people to serve as your bridesmaids and groomsmen. On several occasions in my wedding planning career, brides and grooms have confided in me, sharing their frustration with the bridesmaid who seldom calls back... or the groomsman whose arm has to be twisted to go in for a tuxedo fitting... or the opinionated bridal party member who shoots down all of the bride's ideas for her wedding... or even the groomsmen who never plan a bachelor "outing" for the groom... It breaks my heart when couples do not receive the support they should when preparing for such a significant occasion in their lives.

Part of the problem lies in the choice of bridal party members. Often times, couples select bridesmaids and groomsmen out of obligation. They feel they ought to ask certain people to be on their bridal party because this is their oldest friend, or their future sister/brother-in-law, or because the other person asked him/her to be on that person's bridal party previously... There are countless reasons why couples have chosen someone to be on their bridal party just because they felt they should.

However, I would urge couples to instead consider those individuals who will truly take their role as bridesmaid or groomsman to heart. These people should be ones who sincerely care for the bride and groom, and who will take an active part in helping the bride or groom ensure the success of their wedding. Such bridesmaids and groomsmen, maids of honor and best men, make all the difference in seeing to it that the bride and groom enjoy not just their wedding day, but the process of planning it leading up to that special occasion.

Photo by Kris Labang Photography

I have witnessed a number of instances where members of the bridal party have gone above and beyond the call of duty to make the bride's or groom's experience extra special. Some will go shopping with the bride for her gown, or they will even plan unique and creative bonding events such as a bridal party scavenger hunt before the wedding. Another memorable example was the planning and preparation of skits for the couple, performed at their wedding receptions. Even just basic and kind-hearted gestures like helping to assemble favors or helping the couple by running errands for them can make all the difference in a couple feeling supported and extra excited about tying the knot. When it comes to selecting your bridal party members, choose wisely; you'll thank me for it.Photo by Kai Photo

Happy planning!

Tips and Advice: devise a shot list

As the saying goes, "hindsight 20-20." In retrospect, many couples after their wedding wish their photographer and/or videographer had captured, say, more images of the guests, or a shot just with grandma, or some of the key moments and special touches planned for the day. Of course, nothing can replace those memories, but documenting them through film truly helps to relive those memories and to share them with others.

For those in the process of planning their wedding, we suggest creating a photo shot list, to include things that the photographer and videographer would not intuitively know to capture. For example, it would be unnecessary to include "bride and groom together" on the shot list because naturally, your photographer and videographer will know to shoot this, but the out of the ordinary requests are those that should definitely be included. Perhaps you would like a close-up of your grandmother's handkerchief that she has shared with you for your wedding, or it could be a photo sharing a toast with the groomsmen and the fathers prior to the ceremony. What touching images these would make!

To illustrate, here are some shot requests by other brides and grooms...

The bride and groom's "first sight" shot when they see each other for the first time on their wedding day, but the groom instead being more overwhelmed to see his "true love" (his car)

Photos by Kai Photo

A photo with the littlest and dearest member of the family - their dog

Photo by Kris Labang Photography

Photos at sunset

Photo by Kris Labang Photography

Photo of the bride and groom shooting themselves with their cell phones (to tie into their "When Apple Meets Droid" theme) after being pronounced "husband and wife"

Photo by Kai Photo

Note: an overly extensive shot list will mean that your photographer and videographer may end up spending more time checking things off the list than on capturing some great candids, so review your list with your wedding planner, photographer, and videographer to ensure that the list makes sense given the timing of the day.

Happy Planning!

Featured Wedding #17: Rachel and Darren

Photos by Kris Labang Photography

Rachel and Darren have known each other since second grade and even shared the same circle of friends throughout high school. But it wasn’t until they put their hearts on the line and took a leap of faith that they became a couple. And on August 8, 2011, they pledged themselves to each other as husband and wife.

A Hawaii destination wedding, which would give many of their guests the chance to experience the beautiful islands for the first time, was an obvious pick. They chose Lanikuhonua, an intimate oceanfront estate that was a favorite of ancient Hawaiian royalty, as the setting for their day.

The ladies prepared in the luxurious Ihilani Resort, just a short walk from Lanikuhonua. The bridesmaids donned short satin dresses and wore their hair in stylish updos to show off the sophisticated criss-crossed straps of their dresses.

Rachel’s gown was the perfect fit for her wonderful personality. The sweetheart neckline was classic romance, while tiered ruffles added a free-spirited dose of whimsy. The white blooms in her dark hair provided exotic drama.

Not to be outdone, Darren and his groomsmen donned island-appropriate attire of khaki slacks and white linen shirts, accented by fresh maile and orchid leis.

When guests arrived at Lanikuhonua, they knew it was paradise. Tall palm trees stretched into the sky, while the turquoise Pacific gently scented the air. An understated bamboo archway, bedecked with a cascading arrangement of oriental lilies, hydrangeas, and classic roses, added to the appeal.

Despite the stunning scenery, all eyes were on Rachel as both her parents escorted her down the aisle.

After cocktails beneath the tropical sky, guests took their seats under the cozy and luxurious tent a few feet away. The centerpieces, which incorporated artful branches and pale lilac roses set in river rocks, had a feel that was both natural and sophisticated. The head table arrangement tied the look together.

Indigo Restaurant presented a dinner comprised of island favorites, including kalua pork steamed buns, and classic dishes, such as peppercorn crusted beef.

As the sun went down behind the ocean, the couple snuck away to steal some kisses during a romantic photo shoot.

In lieu of a cake cutting, the newlyweds laughingly fed each other bites of a beloved Hawaii treat - green tea mochi ice cream from Bubbies, a famous local shop.

The best man then presented his wedding gift to the couple: An elaborate video slideshow, complete with narration and music, that had all attendees in tears with laughter.

As the sky darkened, shoji lanterns illuminated the tent, giving the signal that it was time to boogie down on the dance floor.

The guests departed with treats from the Honolulu Cookie Company, which were presented in traditionally woven buri boxes and adorned with ribbon (hand tied by Rachel) and a festive bloom. Maybe it was these goodies that supplied the energy needed for the next day’s agenda – group surfing lessons at Waikiki beach!

Congratulations, Rachel and Darren!

For more of this spunky and loving couple, check out:

http://wgmfortheknot.blogspot.com/2011/08/vegetable-bouquet.html

and

http://wgmfortheknot.blogspot.com/2011/08/thumb-print-guest-book.html

Vegetable Bouquet

Photos by Kris Labang Photography

I had first heard of bouquets with vegetables in them, years ago, when I initially started planning weddings. Wendy Balidoy of Spinning WEB Florist, mentioned that she had previously made bouquets of vegetables or fruit for some of her prom clients. I knew that bouquets could be made of material other than flowers...I had just never seen one with my own eyes.

Then along come Rachel and Darren, the most fun-loving and self proclaimed "cheesey" couple around. Their wedding will always remain a fond one for me, with so many laugh-out-loud moments on their wedding day. Rachel and Darren put their florist, actually, My Florist (yes, that's their name, "My Florist") to the test by opting for a bouquet with vegetables.

The result was pure perfection - a combination of feminity, mixed with, well, cauliflower! As Rachel and Darren put it, all that was missing was the ranch dressing! And then of course, the good humoured, knee-slapping jokes ensued, "whoever said that brides don't get to eat on their wedding day?" or "it's a bouquet and a snack in one!" Perhaps this will inspire you, too, to consider a veggie bouquet for your special occasion. (Note, dressing not included.)

Thumb print guest "book"

I love the thumb print trees featured on Etsy, where each of the guests leave a stamped impression of their thumb print on the branches of a tree. The thumb prints resemble leaves on the tree and the finished product is then a tree full of "leaves" representing all the attendees of a wedding. Some couples now opt for this in lieu of a traditional guest book.

Here's a cool twist: at Rachel and Darren's wedding two weeks ago, they asked guests to leave a thumb print representing the petals of flowers that then formed a lei. Darren's sister-in-law, a graphic designer, came up with this one-of-a-kind poster design for them, befitting of their destination wedding here in Hawaii. What kind of new twist will you do for your wedding? The possibilities are endless!

Photos by Kris Labang Photography

Tips and Advice: place cards

The tradition of utilizing place cards to mark each guest's seat at a table is a very formal and elegant one, and lends a sense of sophistication to any wedding. They can be beautifully printed, propped up on pretty stands, or embellished with tiny accents to tie into a theme for extra special touches. I especially love the ones done by hand in calligraphy.

Photo by Absolutely Loved

However, many couples doubt, particularly when guest counts creep up to larger numbers, whether it is even necessary to prepare place cards, which designate a specific seat for someone, at an event. Identifying a particular seat for each guest can be cumbersome, tricky, and "political," as it then becomes important to take into consideration whether to seat one guest next to another. Is it necessary? In short, the answer is "no."

Photo by Kris Labang Photography

A word of advice I always give to couples is to consider place cards for the parent table(s). Often times, guests eager to congratulate the parents, pull moms and dads in many directions and thus, parents frequently find themselves the last to take their seats at their table. This usually leaves parents with the worst seats at the table - with their backs toward the bride and groom! Setting place cards in advance for the parents at their table will ensure them a place of honor and a wonderful view of the stars of the show, the bride and groom.

Photo by Eugene Kam Photography

Tips and Advice: fresh flowers for the bride's hair

photo by Kris Labang Photography

Nothing says "wedding in Hawai'i" like fresh flowers adorning the bride's hair. While beautiful blooms make a pretty statement, consider the following when preparing for the big day:

• flower type - consult with the floral designer when choosing what kind(s) of flower to wear in your hair. Certain flowers may be more delicate or fragile, and may not be conducive to wearing in your hair for several hours.
• flower prep - ask your hair and make-up artist if having the blooms wired and taped is preferred. The floral designer can wire the flowers and tape them, making them sturdier and less likely to break off, but in some instances, this may make it more difficult to secure the blossom to your hair. Your hair and make-up artist would be able to indicate what will work best with your do, given the type of flower(s).
• back-ups - Guests always want to greet and hug the bride, so often times, hair flowers become subject to jostling, bumping, and bruising. Request extra hair flowers from your floral designer and have your on-site wedding coordinator or bridesmaid switch out the "old" blossoms for fresh ones.
• tiaras, veils, AND hair flowers, oh my! - For those who want it all, you can "have your cake, and eat it, too!" Donning a tiara, headband, or other ornate hair accessories and hair flowers at the same time looks busy, and the two adornments compete with each other for attention. Instead of wearing both at the same time, enjoy two looks in the same day. Start with the one look with the veil for the ceremony and switch looks for the reception for a fresh look.

photos by Eclat Photography

• delivery time - Often times, floral designers will deliver bridal party flowers in time for picture taking. However, by the time these flowers arrive, the hair and make-up artist, who would be best at inserting the hair flowers, may have already left. Make specific arrangements to either have the flowers delivered before the hair and make-up artist leaves, or to pick up the hair flowers from the floral designer early, so that the flowers are ready for the hair and make-up artist.
  

Fourth of July

It's the Fourth of July! Happy Independence Day! Time to pause and remember the historical significance of this holiday...time for barbecues...and time for weddings?

July happens to be a fantastic month for weddings in Hawai'i. With longer days (= more time for outdoor, day-lit photos), great chances for ideal weather, and vacation time for guests with kids, July weddings are naturally desirable.

The Fourth of July holiday also makes the perfect time for fireworks! Choosing a July 4th wedding date naturally means evening skies aglow with spectacular fireworks displays - for free - if the location affords a view. Brides and grooms wanting sparklers for their weddings may also purchase them at this time, as their availability is limited to the period leading up to Independence Day and New Year's. (Sparklers may not be shipped in to Hawai'i, so be sure to plan ahead.)

One thing to bear in mind: weddings on holidays such as Independence Day will almost certainly mean increased costs. Check with your vendors and venue regarding higher holiday rates or labor fees for choosing a holiday.

Photo by Kris Labang Photography

May Day in Hawai'i

Photo courtesy of Christie Pham.

Traditionally, May Day in Hawai'i is May 1. This day was meant to celebrate the Hawaiian customs of making and wearing leis. There is even a song many Hawaii locals know called, "May Day is Lei Day in Hawai'i." On this day, many festivities are held, including lei contests in schools, a Lei Day celebration at Queen Kapi'olani Park in Waikiki, and May Day celebrations at elementary schools.
Clearly, leis are an important part of this day, which also means that florists may be either busy due to a higher demand and/or prices for leis may increase due to the multiple events during this time. Often times, many weddings in Hawaii will have at least one lei involved, whether it is a maile lei for the groom or multiple leis for the VIPs of the wedding like the parents of the wedding couple. With a higher demand, lei prices could increase, which is something to consider when choosing a wedding date or what flowers to use at the wedding.

( Photo on left by Andrew Cha. Photo on right by Kris Labang Photography.)